Ignition 2 ½ Hrs
The stock 1913 ignition system utilizes a low-voltage timer and high voltage Heinz coils. Historically, the Heinz points proved temperamental, leading Ford to switch to the superior K-W design in 1914. To address Heinz performance issues, many owners installed a "Master Vibrator" to serve as the primary circuit breaker for all four coils.
Currently, the K-W Master Vibrator and one Heinz coil are inoperative.
Proposed Solutions
Rebuild Master Vibrator & Install New Day Timer: Restore the Master Vibrator, shunt the individual coil points, and install a reproduction “New Day” timer. While period-correct and effective, this requires locating obsolete parts and necessitates periodic point adjustment. I have been unable to remove the coil from the Master Vibrator box.
ECCT Tuning & New Day Timer: Bypass the Master Vibrator and install a “New Day” timer. Utilize Mike Kossor’s updated Electronic Coil Tester (ECCT) to precision-tune the Heinz coils. While the ECCT offers modern accuracy, the inherent instability of the Heinz points may still require annual maintenance to ensure reliable hand-cranking. Spoke with Mike. He feels that the original Heinz coils can be tuned and will stay in tune if tuned with the ECCT. The procedure is to tune the coils, and retune after 200 miles. Then they should stay in tune. I will see if I can find new capacitors and points. The fix requires disassembly of the boxes which will be time consuming. If Mike is right this would be a good cave man option. https://www.mtfca.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=26730 Labor will be expensive.
E-Timer Conversion: Install a modern E-Timer, bypass the Master Vibrator and shunt the Heinz points with a fuse. The E-Timer handles all timing and dwell electronically, providing a "set-and-forget" solution that eliminates mechanical point issues and compensates for weak magnetos. Timer $580 USD. Fairly simple to install. Invisible upgrade.
I discussed all this with Mike Kosser (Kenilworth, NJ, 908 553-8299). He is designed the ECCT and E-Timer. He is convinced that his ECCT will properly tune the Heinz coils. Mike referred me to Peter Anderson in Hussar.
Spoke with Peter Anderson. (403) 934-7427 His tester could be modified to tune Heinz coils.
From MTFCA Forum — How to open Heinze coil boxes without breaking the wood. I use a heat gun and puddy knife, I open the top of the coil and then take the capacitor side, heating both sides of the joints and using puddy knife easily open. Keep the heat going and continue separating the joints, from top to bottom, move the heat not to burn the wood. It’s an easy and very rewarding process
